TheatreWorks, a nonprofit theater company based in Palo Alto, has decided to clean out the closets and sell off costumes and props from its 43-year-old stash.

The Spring Surplus Sale occurs June 14-15.

When I heard about this dispersal, I thought of the nifty shot we collectors will have at finding fun, even funky, treasures. The cache includes old trunks and luggage, glassware, furniture, Chinese lanterns and oddities like three rolls of salmon-colored grasscloth wall covering.

There will also be vintage clothing such as men's leather bomber jackets, trousers and shirts. Scout about for women's skirts, knits, silk robes, furs, wigs and hat boxes, plus wedding dresses and shoes.

Don't head to the Peninsula for this sale. You'll discover the loot in the East Bay at the "scene shop," 37886 Filbert St., Newark. Public hours are 2-5 p.m. June 14 and 10 a.m.-1 p.m. June 15. Visa and MasterCard accepted only on purchases over $20. For specifics, ring up 650-463-1950.

For more than two decades, avid hobbyists have made a point of attending the California Country Antiques and Folk Art Show, a twice-yearly show that features about 50 select vendors.

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I think we're in for a treat at the June 9 version of this event, now managed by veteran show promoters and dealers Ted Birbilis and Sandy Raulston. They're planning to put together an expansive assortment of artifacts.

"We are very excited to be a part of this event and plan to add our own twist," Birbilis told me.

And what might we expect? Watch for styles including California Rancho, Spanish Revival, Mission, Colonial, Old Mexico and American Indian to appear, side by side, with 18th- and 19th-century American country objects.

Proceeds from the show benefit the Los Altos History Museum, the site of the sale. Details: 97 Hillview Ave., Los Altos. Admission: $15 for early buyers (10-11 a.m.). General admission costs $10 (11 a.m.-4 p.m.). 626-437-6275; www.californiacountryshow.com.

Hats galore

All "mad hatters" will be delighted to learn that the Preservation Action Council of San Jose will once again host its Fabulous Hat Party on June 15.

This year's bash occurs at the Stelling House, at 104 S. 13th St. The historic Naglee Park home dates from 1908 and is the kind of residence you will feel at home in gussied up with your fancy finery.

More than 200 hats (including some for men), accessories and jewelry will be artfully displayed throughout the stately house. I'm told hats will be tagged from $4 to $400.

Peruse the selection while you and your chums enjoy light refreshments and listen to live music. Let your imagination run wild, and think of this as an exhilarating afternoon when you create your own "Great Gatsby" moment.

Party hours: 12:30-4 p.m. Early admission (12:30-2 p.m.) with first dibs on hats costs $25. General admission (2-4 p.m.) is $15 in advance, $30 the day of the event. Funds raised support the council's efforts to preserve architectural history of San Jose. Details: 408-998-8105; www.preservation.org.